Energy retriever system

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is an energy retriever system and methods for absorbing energy and using that energy elsewhere or converting it to other useful forms of energy or work. The energy retriever system consists of a series of components interconnected by a plurality of conduits containing a fluid. Working as a self-contained thermodynamic system, the energy retriever system allows the fluid to circulate through all of these elements. Heat added to the energy capture subsystem heats the fluid. The fluid becomes more pressurized and moves into the expansion cycle subsystem. The energy extraction subsystem transforms the thermal energy of the fluid into work, kinetic energy or thermal energy. The reservoir subsystem compresses the fluid and reintroduces it into the energy capture subsystem. One-way valves are used throughout the system to keep the flow of the fluid in one direction and separate sections of the system that contain different pressures.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 12/977,040,filed Dec. 22, 2010, entitled “Energy Retriever System,” by the sameinventor, which was, in turn, a continuation of U.S. Ser. No.11/935,397, filed on Nov. 5, 2007, now issued U.S. Pat. No. 7,997,077,which claimed the benefit of a provisional U.S. Patent Application No.60/857,048, filed on Nov. 6, 2006, with the same title and by the sameinventor.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to absorbing energy into a thermodynamicsystem and using that energy elsewhere or converting it to other usefulforms of energy. These energy forms can be used to perform work, reducethe normal workload within a system and in some embodiments it can beused to perform both

2. Description of the Prior Art

Many of the machines used today are powered by internal combustionengines (ICE). As part of their normal operation, heat is created. Thisheat is typically viewed as a waste product and many times, additionalwork needs to be performed by the ICE to get rid of this heat.Currently, there are few devices that retrieve this energy and use it tocreate work or reduce the work normally performed by the ICE.

Using the example of an automobile, there are many devices in anautomobile that are powered by mechanisms that force the ICE to do morework. By adding more work that must be performed by the ICE, more fuelis used. A good example of this is an automobile alternator that usesthe mechanical energy of the ICE to produce an electric charge to chargea battery. Another example is the ICE cooling system that forces work onthe engine to circulate coolant through the engine. Similar examplesexist in other uses of ICEs. A refrigeration truck or fishing boat usessignificant amounts of fuel to create the mechanical energy that runsthe compressor to keep their refrigeration compartments cool. At thesame time, the ICE discharges a significant amount of heat as waste.

By reducing the mechanical work demands on an ICE and substituting thatwork with work performed by other energy sources, the ICE can work lessand burn less fuel. Energy sources that are already present in an ICE,such as waste heat, can provide a substitute or supplement for thatwork. In addition, these energy sources can supplement the mechanicalwork the ICE performs to move a body further reducing the fuelconsumption.

A similar situation exists with building environmental control systems.A building's exterior is exposed to thermal energy coming from the sun.The heat creates a larger demand on the environmental control systemswhen the temperature is high by demanding more air conditioning. Thereare few ways to take advantage of this heat source and convert it touseful work that can lower the electrical demand caused by the increasedneed in air conditioning.

By using a heat source that is normally a waste by-product as the energysource, this system can create work that was otherwise not available. Ifsufficient energy is captured, multiple types of work can be extractedfrom the system. For systems such as an automobile, this additional workcan make the total automobile more efficient.

The existing art is attempts to work within the existing designs, andtherefore the existing temperature and pressure ranges of enginedesigns. These approaches miss the benefits that can come from othersolutions that utilize extreme temperatures and pressures. By increasingthe amount of heat that is taken from the ICE, it may be possible tohave the ICE operate at higher temperatures. And by operating an ICE atthese higher temperatures, the efficiency of the ICE can be increased.

Additionally, existing solutions comprise point solutions that do notnecessarily maximize the efficiency of multiple waste energy sources andmultiple energy extraction means.

In the existing art, U.S. Pat. No. 4,996,845 discloses a powergenerating device however this device is limited to automobileimplementations and requires constant operation of the automobile engineto generate power.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,959 discloses a power cycle with fluids having lowboiling points however, that implementation does not disclose featuresto make the power cycle efficient in environments such as mobilevehicles.

The prior art does not address the benefits and challenges associatedwith solutions integrating multiple devices and systems connected to apower generating device connected to what is normally a waste heatsource.

There remains a useful benefit, therefore, for an energy retrieversystem that can capture energy and transport or convert that energy intoother useful sources. By capturing energy that is typically a nuisanceor a waste product, the efficiency of systems can be increased.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The energy retriever system consists of a self-contained series ofcomponents interconnected by a plurality of conduits containing a fluid.The components include an energy capture subsystem, an expansion cyclesubsystem a condenser cycle subsystem and a reservoir subsystem. One-waypressure/vacuum (PV) valves are used throughout the energy retrieversystem and subsystems to keep the flow of the fluid in one direction.These one-way PV valves are positioned to separate sections ofthe systemthat contain different pressures. Working together as a self-containedsystem, the energy retriever system allows the fluid to circulatethrough all ofthese elements. Heat added to the energy capture subsystemheats the fluid. The fluid becomes more pressurized and moves into theexpansion cycle subsystem. The expansion cycle subsystem transforms thethermal energy of the fluid into kinetic energy as well as thermalenergy. The reservoir subsystem compresses the fluid and allows it to bereintroduced into the energy capture subsystem.

It is an object of one embodiment of this invention to provide an energyretriever system comprising: an energy capture subsystem having a heatsource at an operational temperature and a conduit containing a fluid ata pressure; an expansion cycle subsystem; a condenser cycle subsystem; areservoir subsystem; a plurality of conduits connecting the energycapture subsystem, the condenser cycle subsystem and the reservoirsubsystem; and the plurality of conduits containing the fluid having ahigh expansion factor, high thermal conductivity and a boiling pointlower than the operational temperature of the heat source and lower thanthe pressure of the fluid at the heat source.

It is another object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the expansion cycle subsystem comprisesa turbo.

It is another object of the invention to provide an energy retrieversystem wherein the expansion cycle system further comprises an electricgenerator interoperably connected to the turbo.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the energy retriever systeminteroperates with a self propelled mobile vehicle.

It is another object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein: the expansion cycle subsystem comprisesat least one conduit, a valve, a turbo and an electric generatorinteroperably connected to the turbo; the condenser cycle subsystemcomprises at least one conduit, at least one radiant cooler; and thereservoir subsystem comprises at least one conduit, at least one valve,a reservoir, a compressor and a pump.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the energy retriever systeminteroperates with a self propelled mobile vehicle.

It is another object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the heat source comprises an internalcombustion engine and the generator is interoperably connected to anelectric motor that assists in propelling the mobile vehicle.

It is an object of one embodiment of the invention to provide an energyretriever system wherein the generator is interoperably connected to abattery charger that charges at least one battery.

It is another object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the at least one battery isinteroperably connected to an electric motor that assists in propellingthe mobile vehicle.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the at least one battery assists inpropelling the mobile vehicle while the heat source is not generatingheat.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the heat source comprises at least onesolar panel and the electric generator is interoperably connected to abattery charger that charges at least one battery.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system of wherein the condenser cycle subsystem furthercomprises a cooling system comprising a coiled conduit and a blowingmeans to cycle air over the coiled conduit whereby the fluid absorbsthermal energy from the cycled air and reduces the temperature of thecycled air.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the heat source comprises an internalcombustion engine and the cooling system cools a compartment of themobile vehicle.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the heat source comprises an internalcombustion engine and the cooling system cools an air intake of theinternal combustion engine.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the heat source comprises an internalcombustion engine and the condenser cycle subsystem further comprises acoiled conduit and a blowing means to cycle air over the coiled conduitand thermally transfer heat from the coiled conduit whereby the cycledair heats the fuel of the internal combustion engine.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the cooling system cools a compartmentof the mobile vehicle while the heat source is not generating heat.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the heat source comprises at least onesolar panel and the cooling system cools a compartment of a habitablestructure.

It is an object of one embodiment of the invention to provide an energyretriever system comprising: an energy capture subsystem comprising atleast one conduit containing a fluid at a pressure and in thermalcontact with an internal combustion engine exhaust having an operationtemperature; an expansion cycle subsystem comprising at least oneconduit, a valve, a turbo; the turbo being interoperably connected to anelectric generator interoperably connected to at least one electricdevice whereby the generator can power the electric generator and theelectric device by the turning of the turbo; the turbo beinginteroperably connected to an alternator that is interoperably connectedto a battery interoperably connected to the electric device whereby thebattery can be charged by the turbo and the battery can power theelectric device; at least one solar panel interoperably connected to thebattery whereby the battery can be charged by the solar panel; acondenser cycle subsystem comprising at least one conduit and at leastone radiant cooler; the radiant cooler being thermally exposed to airand located in proximity to a space whereby the space can be cooled bythe air exposed to the radiant cooler; a reservoir subsystem comprisingat least one conduit, at least one valve, a reservoir, a compressor anda pump; a plurality of conduits connecting the energy capture subsystem,the condenser cycle subsystem and the reservoir subsystem; the pluralityof conduits containing the fluid having a high expansion factor, highthermal conductivity and a boiling point lower than the operationaltemperature of the internal combustion engine and lower than thepressure of the fluid at the internal combustion engine; and the energyretriever system being contained within an automobile.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the fluid comprises helium.

It is a further object of one embodiment of the invention to provide anenergy retriever system wherein the fluid comprises air.

It is an object of one embodiment of the invention to provide an methodof retrieving energy from a fluid in an energy retriever system, themethod comprising the steps of: transferring heat energy to a fluidutilizing an energy capture subsystem comprising at least one conduit inthermal contact with a heat source; extracting energy from the fluid inan expansion cycle subsystem comprising at least one conduit, a valve, aturbo and an electric generator interoperably connected to the turbowhereby a shaft connected to the turbo rotates and turns aninteroperably connected generator; charging at least one battery withthe generator; operating at least on electrical device with the at leastone battery; condensing the fluid in a condenser cycle subsystemcomprising at least one conduit, at least one radiant cooler whereby airflowing over the radiant cooler cools a space; recycling the fluid tothe energy capture subsystem through a reservoir subsystem comprising atleast one conduit, at least one valve, a reservoir, a compressor and apump; and controlling the fluid with logic executed by a processor andmemory interoperably connected to the at least one valve and theconduit.

It is an object of one embodiment of the invention to provide an energyretriever system wherein the fluid, if exposed to humans, is nothazardous to their health.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, toinclude variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and mannerof operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obviousto one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to thoseillustrated in the drawings and described in the specification areintended to be encompassed by the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the energy retriever system.

FIG. 2 shows another embodiment of the energy retriever systemillustrating embodiments of the energy extraction subsystem.

FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of the energy retriever systemillustrating an embodiment of the energy capture subsystem.

FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the energy retriever systemillustrating another embodiment of the energy extraction subsystem.

FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the energy retriever system.

FIG. 6 shows an internal combustion engine having an exhaust systembeing wrapped and sealed with insulation.

FIG. 7 shows a turbo having blades like a water wheel.

FIG. 8 shows a single diagram of a conventional electric motor mountedon a vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Before explaining the one disclosed embodiment of the present inventionin detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited inits application to the details of the particular arrangement shown sincethe invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminologyused in this detailed description is for the purpose of description andnot of limitation.

While the invention has been described, disclosed, illustrated and shownin various terms of certain embodiments or modifications which it haspresumed in practice, the scope of the invention is not intended to be,nor should it be deemed to be, limited thereby and such othermodifications or embodiments as may be suggested by the teachings hereinare particularly reserved especially as they fall within the breadth andscope of the claims here appended.

The energy retriever system consists of a self-contained series ofcomponents interconnected by a plurality of conduits containing a fluid.The components include an energy capture subsystem, an expansion cyclesubsystem a condenser cycle subsystem and a reservoir subsystem. One-waypressure/vacuum (PV) valves are used throughout the energy retrieversystem and subsystems to keep the flow of the fluid in one direction.These one-way PV valves are positioned to separate sections of thesystem that contain different pressures. Working together as aself-contained system, the energy retriever system allows the fluid tocirculate through all of these elements. Heat added to the energycapture subsystem heats the fluid. The fluid becomes more pressurizedand moves into the expansion cycle subsystem. The expansion cyclesubsystem transforms the thermal energy of the fluid into kinetic energyas well as thermal energy. The reservoir subsystem compresses the fluidand allows it to be reintroduced into the energy capture subsystem.

Embodiments of this invention can be used with many different types ofsystems and energy sources. A building's exposure to the sun presentsthe opportunity to use that solar heat to generate other energy andwork. One particular embodiment, use with an internal combustion engine(ICE), allows the heat energy created by the ICE to be converted toother forms of energy that can reduce the workload on the ICE. In avehicle such as an automobile, embodiments of this invention will makethe total automobile more efficient and reduce the fuel required to runthe automobile. It is contemplated that embodiments of this inventioncan be applied to any ICE engine that produces heat during its operationregardless of the engine size or the type vehicle it is tasked withpowering.

Composition of One Embodiment of the Energy Retriever System:

In one embodiment of the invention, the energy retriever system is usedwith an internal combustion engine (ICE) of a self propelled mobilevehicle such as an automobile. The heat of an ICE is not the only sourceof energy that can be used, but it illustrates the operation andbenefits of the invention. Other embodiments of a heat source caninclude but are not limited to using heat from a building rooftop, heatfrom solar panels, heat from an ship engine or heat generated from anyother heat source.

The Energy Retriever System Structure:

One embodiment of the energy retriever system comprises a self-containedseries of components interconnected by a plurality of conduits 10containing a fluid 20. As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the energyretriever system 1000 comprises of a series of subsystems interconnectedby a plurality of conduits 10 containing a fluid. The components includean energy capture subsystem 100, an expansion cycle subsystem 210 ancondenser cycle subsystem 250, a reservoir subsystem 300 and a pluralityof one way pressure/vacuum (PV) valves. The expansion cycle subsystem210 and the condenser cycle subsystem 250 are collectively part of anenergy extraction subsystem 200.

The components and subsystems of this energy retriever system areinterconnected by the conduits containing the fluid 20. The conduits 10comprise generally tubular material interconnected with the energyretriever system subsystems to carry the fluid between those subsystems.As used throughout this description, the conduit 10 may also comprisechambers or other compartments within components of the energy retrieversystem that allow the flow of fluid throughout the system. In additionto allow fluid flow in hot environments, the conduit must also be ableto maintain high pressures within the conduit.

The fluid 20 used in this system, is defined as a material continuumthat is unable to withstand a static shear stress and can comprisematerial that can be both a vapor and a liquid depending upon thetemperature and pressure of the material. The fluid 20 used in thisenergy retriever system 1000 is selected from those fluids that have ahigh expansion factor, high thermal conductivity and a boiling pointlower than the temperature of the heat source 102 and lower than thepressure the fluid 20 is subjected to at the heat source 102. Anexpansion factor is defined herein as a quantitative representation of amaterials tendency to volumetrically expand rapidly at the slightestdecrease in pressure or at the slightest increase in temperature. Highthermal conductivity is defined herein as a representation of amaterials tendency to freely exchange thermal energy. A boiling point isdefined herein as the temperature and pressure at which a fluid changesstate from a liquid to a vapor. The critical temperature as used hereinis defined as the temperature above which a vapor cannot be liquefied.In one embodiment, the fluid comprises helium. Other suitable fluidsinclude, but are not limited to water, ammonia, helium II, commonrefrigerants used in today's air conditioning units and other noblegases such as Neon, Argon, Krypton, Xenon, and Radon. Is it alsocontemplated that the fluid 20 could comprise air which can comprise acombination of the gases in the atmosphere including but not limited toa mixture of gases such as oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen. Fluidselection should consider the chemical properties of the fluid and theoperating environment of the energy retriever system 1000.

Within this energy retriever system 1000 is also a series of one-way PVvalves to restrict the flow of the fluid in one direction. The one-wayPV valves also perform the function of separating portions of the systemso that different subsystems can maintain a different pressure on thefluid. The result of combining these subsystems is a self containedsystem that allows the fluid 20 to cycle through each of the subsystemswhile the fluid 20 holds different properties based on its pressure andtemperature within those subsystems. Working together as aself-contained system, the energy retriever system 1000 allows the fluid20 to circulate through all of its subsystems. Heat added to the energycapture subsystem 100 heats the fluid 20. The fluid 20 becomespressurized and moves into the expansion cycle subsystem 210. Theexpansion cycle subsystem 210 transforms the thermal energy of the fluid20 into kinetic energy as well as thermal energy. The condenser cyclesubsystem 250 further transfers thermal energy. The reservoir subsystem300 collects the fluid 20, puts the fluid 20 into a state to be receivedby the energy capture subsystem 100 and allows the fluid 20 to bereintroduced into the energy capture subsystem 100 where the cycle cancontinue.

It is understood that different embodiments of this energy retrieversystem 1000 can contain fluids 20 that will be in different statesdepending on the pressures and temperatures throughout the system. Forexample, if the fluid 20 comprises helium, it is not necessary, but itis likely that the fluid 20 can be maintained in a vapor statethroughout the entire energy retriever system 1000. If the fluid 20comprises helium in certain embodiments, it is also possible that thehelium can be in a liquid or vapor state in the energy capture subsystem100. As another example, if the fluid 20 comprises water, it is likelythat while the system is in operation, the fluid 20 will primarily be ina liquid state in the energy capture subsystem 100, the reservoirsubsystem 300 and the condenser cycle subsystem 250 while the fluid willprimarily be in a vapor state, as steam, in expansion cycle subsystem210.

Insulation placed throughout the system increases the efficiency of thesystem. For example, the more insulation provided between the heatsource 102 and the radiant cooler 254 the more heat energy will beabsorbed and held by the fluid 20 and the more effective fluid flow willbe generated.

The above description is just one embodiment of the structuralsubsystems of the energy retriever system 1000. Other embodiments of theenergy retriever system 1000 include, but are not limited to use withalternative heat sources such as but not limited to solar panels, solarcells, geothermal sources, incinerators and steam boilers. Otherembodiments of the subsystems and components of the energy retrieversystem 1000 are described below.

The Energy Capture Subsystem Structure:

Referring to FIG. 1, the energy capture subsystem 100 is used totransfer thermal energy from the heat source 102 and transfer thatenergy into the energy retriever system 1000. The energy capturesubsystem 100 comprises a section of conduit 10 in thermal contact withthe heat source 102 so that heat can be transferred through the conduit10 and to the fluid 20. A plurality of one-way PV valves interoperatewith this energy capture subsystem 100 to hold the fluid 20 at pressureand release it into the expansion cycle subsystem 210 when the fluidpressure reaches a threshold. This threshold is calculated to ensurethat sufficient flow of the fluid 20 from the energy capture subsystem100 to drive the turbo 214 of the expansion cycle subsystem 210. Tomaintain pressure within the energy capture subsystem 100, oneembodiment includes having at least two one-way PV valves on either endof this subsystem. As shown in FIG. 1, the energy capture subsystem 100is able to use the PV valve 308 from the reservoir subsystem 300 tomaintain pressure on the entry point of the fluid 20 into the energycapture subsystem 100. The PV valve 202 of the expansion cycle subsystem210 is used to maintain the pressure on the exit point of the fluid 20from the energy capture subsystem 100. The one-way PV valves are capableof being adjusted to allow the release of the pressurized fluid atspecific pressure or temperature ranges. Adjustments can be mademanually to the valves or the valves can be connected to a computer orsimilar device that can alter adjustments based on different system andenvironmental characteristics.

In one embodiment, the energy retriever system 1000 includes a controlsystem, such as a computer with a processor, to retain in a memorythresholds and other constraints required for the system and thiscomputer communicates with the system to perform the necessaryadjustments.

For description purposes and not for limitation, the energy capturesubsystem 100 takes the heat from an ICE after the combustion processand transfers that heat to the fluid 20. In this embodiment, the energycapture subsystem 100 comprises running the conduit 10 within theexhaust system ofthe ICE (see FIG. 6). The conduit 10 is used to guidethe flow of the fluid 20 and can be wrapped around the exhaust manifold11 and sealed with heavy insulation 13 to hold in the heat.

Although the exhaust headers are a good source of heat, otherembodiments of a heat source 102 from an ICE include capturing ICEcombustion heat by routing the conduits 10 directly through the engineblock, routing them through the catalytic converter or routing themthrough the oil pan. These are some of the options and are not to beconsidered as a complete or limiting list of places from which heat canbe captured from an ICE.

The material used to make the energy capture subsystem 100 and itscomponents must be of a material that can withstand high temperaturesand high pressure.

Other embodiments of this energy capture subsystem 100 include but arenot limited to capturing thermal energy from solar panels and heatsources unrelated to an ICE.

The Energy Extraction Subsystem Structure:

The energy extraction subsystem 200 is comprised of the expansion cyclesubsystem 210 and the condenser cycle subsystem 250. As shown in FIG. 1,one embodiment of the energy extraction subsystem 200 consists of aturbo 214 in the expansion cycle subsystem 210 and at least one radiantcooler 254 in the condenser cycle subsystem 250. It is not necessary touse both components nor is it necessary to limit the use to just thesecomponents.

The expansion cycle subsystem 210 allows a pressurized fluid 20, whethera vapor, a liquid or a supercritical fluid, to enter the expansion cyclesubsystem and become rapidly decompressed. This flow of fluid 20provides a kinetic energy source that can be used to produce furtherwork. Interconnected with the energy capture subsystem 100, thisexpansion cycle subsystem receives high pressure fluid 20 from theenergy capture subsystem 100 and brings it into a large area with arelatively lower pressure and a high velocity. This expansion cyclesubsystem 210 can comprise of a one-way PV valve 202 and a turbo 214powered by the kinetic energy of the fluid 20. The expansion cyclesubsystem 210 can also comprise a larger volume container, such as alarger diameter conduit, that receives the lower temperature fluid 20resulting from its rapid reduction in pressure after is passes from theone-way PV valve 202. The dimensions of the conduit 10 separating theturbo 214 from the valve 202 should be made such that the temperaturedrop between the valve 202 and the turbo 214 does not create a freezingcondition that may interfere with the operation of the turbo 214.

In this embodiment, the expansion cycle subsystem 210 comprises aone-way PV valve 202, a conduit 10 opening onto a turbo 214 and exitsinto another section of conduit 10. The conduit 10 opening onto theturbo 214 is interconnected with the one-way PV valve 202 attached tothe energy capture subsystem 100 so that the high velocity fluid 20flows into the turbo 214. It is beneficial, although not required, tohave the conduits 10 coming from the one-way PV valve 202 of a smalldiameter as they lead into the turbo 214. It is beneficial, although notrequired, to have the heat source 102 as close as possible to the turbo214 to maximize the rate of fluid 20 flow through the turbo 214. Thegreater the pressure difference between the fluid's entry into and exitfrom the turbo 214, the faster the fluid flow will be.

A turbo 214 as used throughout this description is defined as amechanical device able to utilize the velocity flow of a pressurizedfluid to produce mechanical output as torque through a rotating shaft229. In one embodiment, the turbo 214 (see FIG. 7) comprises blades 215much like a water wheel, a torque converter or a turbo charger connectedto a rotatable shaft 229. Suitable turbo designs include, but are notlimited to turbo's capable of operating at pressures between 166 to 4000cubic feet per minute An example of a suitable turbo includes GT-K 1000Turbonetics model sold by turbochargers.com of Houston, Tex. Theseexisting turbo designs may need to be modified from simply compressingair to being designed to turn a shaft connected to generators,alternators and other power extraction devices. Modifications may alsoinvolve the use of some form of reduction gear between the turbo and thepower extraction device. Other embodiments of a turbo include a turbine.The more heat the greater the expansion thus the larger the turbo 214that can be used. And the larger the turbo 214 the greater the potentialfor extracting power from the turbo 214 and its shaft 229.

Embodiments of power extraction devices that utilize work from the turbo214 and shaft are shown in FIGS. 2-5 and are described below.

In addition to the work that can be taken from the turbo 214, thedecompression of the fluid 20 creates a reduction in the temperature ofthe fluid 20. This decompression can reduce the temperature of the fluid20 through adiabatic flash, isentropic expansion or other thermodynamicprocesses depending on the properties of the fluid in this subsystem. Inthis embodiment, after the fluid 20 has passed through the expansioncycle subsystem 210, the decompressed fluid's temperature is reduced.This cold fluid 20 then flows into the condenser cycle subsystem 250.

The condenser cycle subsystem 250 thermal exposes the conduit 10containing the cold fluid 20 coming from the expansion cycle subsystem210 to the surrounding environment. In many applications, thisenvironment will be air such as the normal atmosphere on earth. In oneembodiment, this air is of a higher temperature than the fluid 20 inthis subsystem and as a result, thermal exposure to the air heats thefluid 20. Interconnected to the expansion cycle subsystem 210, thecondenser cycle subsystem 250 consists of the conduits exposed to thisair. A radiant cooler 254, such as a radiator, or a coiling of theconduits 10 can be used to expose the conduits 10 to the air. More thanone radiant cooler or radiator can be used in this subsystem. Having ablowing means, such as a fan or any other device that induces air flowblow over the condenser cycle subsystem 250 is not necessary, but itincreases the amount of air exposed to the condenser cycle subsystem250.

Although the term condenser is used as part of the description of thissubsystem, it is understood that the fluid may not condense inparticular embodiments of this invention.

The condenser cycle subsystem 250 can be comprised of a plurality ofradiant coolers 254 as shown in FIG. 1.

In one embodiment, multiple radiant coolers are utilized and the airflow that comes from a first radiant cooler 254 is used as the airsource to flow into the second radiant cooler 258.

The condenser cycle subsystem is 250 connected to the reservoirsubsystem 300 through a conduit 10.

The Reservoir Subsystem:

Following the condenser cycle subsystem 250 is the reservoir subsystem300. This subsystem preferably includes finned sections of the conduit10 that are thermally exposed to the open flow of the outside air. Thissubsystem allows the fluid 20 to return to the state that is requiredfor the energy capture subsystem 100. This reservoir subsystem 300creates a vacuum to “pull” the fluid 20 in the direction desired andwill increase the speed at which the fluid 20 flows. This will enhancethe efficiency of the system.

The reservoir subsystem 300 pressurizes the fluid 20 and contains twoone-way PV valves 302 and 308 on either end of this subsystem. Theone-way PV valves constrict and control the flow of the fluid 20 so thatthe reservoir subsystem 300 can maintain a pressure. Interconnected byconduits 10, the reservoir subsystem 300 includes a reservoir 306 tocollect and hold the fluid 20 whether it be in a liquid or vapor state.This reservoir 306 is pressurized by a compressor 304 to further inducethe fluid 20 to its proper state and assist in the flowing of the fluid20 into the energy capture subsystem 100. In operation, the reservoir306 will need to be able to contain both liquid and vapor fluid 20 withspace to allow for expansion and the flow of the fluid 20.

The conduits 10 that lead from the reservoir 306 to the heat sourceshould be open to the flow of air to further assist in reducing thetemperature in that part of the system.

Operation of the Energy Retriever System:

Operationally, the energy retriever system 1000 operates on the flow offluid 20 caused by the energy capture subsystem 100. For illustrationpurposes, and not for limitation, a description of the embodiment of theenergy retriever system 1000 as shown in FIG. 2 will be used to describethe system in operation. Where it will assist in illustrating thisembodiment, the description will reflect an energy retriever system 1000used with an automobile ICE as a heat source 102 and helium as a fluid20.

When the energy retriever system is in it's “off” or cool state, thefluid 20 is disbursed within the conduits and components of the energyretriever system. The fluid 20 is in different states based on thelocation of the fluid 20 when the system was turned off. In the energycapture subsystem 100, the fluid 20 will be in equilibrium and either bein a vapor state or a liquid state depending on the ambient temperatureand the pressure on the fluid 20 in the that subsystem. In thisembodiment, it is contemplated that a fluid 20, such as helium, would beheld at a temperature and a pressure in the energy capture subsystem 100sufficient to maintain it as a saturated vapor or liquid when the energyretriever system 1000 is at an ambient temperature. In the expansioncycle subsystem 210, the fluid 20 helium is at a lower pressure than inthe energy capture subsystem and will be in a vapor state at ambienttemperature in the expansion cycle subsystem 210. In the condenser cyclesubsystem 250, the fluid 20 helium is also in a vapor state at ambienttemperature. In the reservoir subsystem 300, the fluid 20 helium ispressurized and will likely be in a mix of liquid and saturated vaporstate.

When the ICE 102 starts, the ICE 102 warms up which in turns warms upthe energy capture subsystem 100 and the contained helium fluid 20. Asthe temperature of the heat source 102 increases and the energy capturesubsystem 100 transfers this heat to the fluid 20, the fluid 20 becomehotter. Since the fluid 20 is past its boiling point, the added heatfurther pressurizes the fluid 20. Since the conduits 10 and one-way PVvalves 202 and 308 constrain this fluid 20, the pressure on the fluid 20increases until it passes a pressure threshold such that the fluid 20starts to flow through the PV valve 202 and into the expansion cyclesubsystem 210. The threshold for the fluid 20 is unique to its chemicalproperties and should be a value sufficient to ensure the released fluidcan drive the turbo 214.

Until the heated fluid 20 passes through the PV valve 202, the rest ofthe fluid 20 in the energy retriever system 1000 remains cold relativeto the heat source 102. As the heat source 102 and the fluid 20 warms,this reinforces a flow of the fluid 20 from the heat source 102 to theexpansion cycle subsystem 210. The direction of flow is insured by theplacement of one-way flow PV valves, such as 202, in selected points ofthe conduit 10.

As the fluid 20 in the energy capture subsystem 100 heats up andpressurizes, it passes the threshold of the one-way PV valve 202 andenters the expansion cycle subsystem 210. Since the pressure in theexpansion cycle subsystem 210 is designed to be significantly lower thanthe pressure in the energy capture subsystem 100, the fluid 20 entersthe expansion cycle subsystem 210 quickly, with significant velocity andcauses a significant drop in fluid 20 temperature. The velocity andtemperature drop will depend on the pressure of the fluid 20 enteringthe expansion cycle subsystem 210 and this will increase as the heatsource 102 warms up and transfers more heat to the fluid 20. Thepressure in the expansion cycle subsystem 210 is maintained by factoringthe energy extraction from the overall energy extraction subsystem 200and adjusting pressure within that system to extract the energy desired.It is possible to have valves, such as a one-way PV valve 30, to be usedto be used as a by-pass and pass fluid 20 at a pressure that keeps thefluid in the expansion cycle and condenser cycle subsystems in a vaporstate.

In this embodiment, as the fluid 20 passes through a PV valve 202, andenters the expansion cycle subsystem 210, it undergoes an abruptreduction in pressure. The fluid 20 is also flowing at high velocity.This high velocity fluid 20, that must be in a vapor state, engages theblades of the turbo 214 and the turbo shaft turns. That pressurereduction in the expansion cycle subsystem 210 also results in the rapidreduction in temperature of the fluid 20. This reduction in temperatureof the fluid 20 is dependant upon the particular fluid used and theproperties of the energy retriever system 1000. Fluids 20 will beselected that properly work with the energy retriever system 1000properties.

The turbo 214 is positioned such that the blades of the turbo 214 areturned by the flow of high velocity fluid 20 coming from one-way PVvalve 202. As this fluid 20 flow turns the turbo 214, the shaft of theturbo 214 turns. The shaft of the turbo 214 is used to create work suchas, but not limited to, turning an alternator 218, running a generator216, powering a battery charger or running a hydraulic pump or othersimilar devices. As shown in FIG. 2, the battery charger can be used tocharge a battery 220.

As the fluid 20 flows into and through the expansion cycle subsystem210, the fluid 20 is decompressed to the point that it is much colderthan when it entered the expansion cycle subsystem 210. Thisdecompressed, and colder, fluid 20 from the expansion cycle subsystem210 is passed through a condenser cycle subsystem 250 that transfers thethermal energy to and from the surrounding environment. The cold mixtureof fluid 20 is routed through the conduits 10 or radiant coolers 254 inthe condenser cycle subsystem 250. A fan 260 can circulate the warm airin the enclosed space across conduits 10 or radiant coolers 254 thatcarry the cold fluid 20 in a mixed liquid and vapor state. Thiscondenser cycle subsystem 250 functions much like an air conditioner andcan cool and area such as the inside of a car. This cooling can also bedirected to other elements of an automobile such as the engine itself orthe air intake of the engine.

Where the fluid 20 comprises helium, the fluid 20 enters the expansioncycle subsystem 210 as a pressurized vapor and stays in a vapor statethroughout this subsystem and the condenser cycle subsystem 250. As thefluid 20 absorbs heat from the environment, in exchange for the cold ofthe fluid 20, the fluid 20 warms.

Once through the condenser cycle subsystem 250, the fluid 20 flows tothe reservoir subsystem 300. By allowing ample flow of cooling airaround the reservoir 306, the fluid 20 is returned to a temperaturerelatively lower than the fluid 20 coming directly from exposure to theheat source 102. This will form a low pressure or vacuum on the insideof the reservoir subsystem 300 and induce a flow of fluid 20 throughoutthe system and through one-way PV valve 302. PV valve 302 allows fluid20 to enter into the reservoir subsystem 300 and maintain the pressuredifference between that subsystem and the condenser cycle subsystem 250.Valve 302, and its function, may also be performed by the compressor304. The reservoir subsystem 300 also pressurizes the fluid 20 with theuse of a compressor 304 ensuring the fluid 20 is in its proper state forintroduction into the energy capture subsystem 100.

In one embodiment, a pump 310 maintains the pressure in the reservoirsubsystem 300 so that the fluid 20 is maintained at a pressure to inducethe fluid 20 into PV valve 308.

As the fluid 20 flows back into the energy capture subsystem 100 andpast the heat source 102, it is heated again and the cycle continues.

Although the above embodiment was illustrated utilizing helium as thefluid 20, it is also possible to utilize other embodiments of a fluid20. Water would also be a suitable fluid 20 for use with this energyretriever system 1000. As mentioned above, this embodiment would createa system with different states for the fluid 20 than the embodimentutilizing helium. For example, when using water as the fluid 20 whilethe system is operating, the fluid would normally be in a liquid statein both the reservoir subsystem 300 and the energy capture subsystem 100while the fluid 20 would be in a generally vapor state through theenergy extraction subsystem 200.

As shown in FIG. 2, the result of this operation is the turning of theturbo 214 can be used to create work such as turning a shaft. This workfrom the shaft would in turn be used to power any number of devices suchas a generator 216 to supply the electrical power to the rest of the caras well as an alternator 218 to recharge a battery 220. This work couldalso be used to provide supplementary mechanical work to help turn thewheels of a vehicle.

In addition to the work benefits from the turbo 214, the thermal energyfrom the expansion cycle subsystem can be used to cool an area such asan automobile interior or a refrigeration trailer. In this embodiment,the temperature of the fluid 20 in the condenser cycle subsystem willtypically be less than the temperature of automobiles interior. Byblowing air over the first radiant cooler 254 with a fan 260, therelatively cool temperature of the fluid 20 cools the surroundingenvironment. This system can even be used to provide the cooling forother environments such as is necessary to maintain a refrigeratedcontainer towed by a commercial truck. This cool fluid 20 can also beused to cool the engine or engine air intakes.

As shown in FIG. 2, a bypass valve 30 and conduit 10 can be installedbetween the energy capture subsystem 100 and one or more radiantcoolers. The bypass valve 30 allows the fluid 20 to continue to flowwithout flowing though the turbo 214 but through the first radiantcooler 254 to cool the fluid. This valve 30 can also act as atemperature regulator for the purpose of maintaining a desiredtemperature in any given space.

In addition to providing additional work and thermal benefits, theabsorption of heat from the ICE helps reduce the ICEs operatingtemperature. In the event that the reduced demand on the engine coolsthe engine too much, the cooling system can be set to force the engineto operate at a higher temperature.

Another Embodiment of the Energy Extraction Subsystem—Cool Air Intake:

In another embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 4, the energyextraction subsystem can be used to cool air before it is feed into theair intake 280 of an ICE. In this embodiment, the radiant cooler 254used to provide air conditioning or refrigeration can be used to coolthe intake air 280 for the automobile ICE. The cooler the air “breathed”by an engine the better the ICE will run, the better the compression,the more power will be produced and the cooler the ICE will run.

In this embodiment, the radiant cooler 254 can be used to cool the airjust before it enters the ICE to enhance the compression and providegreater compression. By feeding the ICE cool air the power will begreatly enhanced. In addition the level of humidity of the air can beincreased during this stage as well. This will help to lower thetemperature of the air and further increase the compression inside thecombustion chamber of the ICE. By reducing the size of the air intake280 and the amount of fuel provided the power production will return tonormal but and fuel consumption will be reduced.

ICE's designed to operate with this system may need to be designed tooperate at considerably higher temperatures than today's normal ICE's.This way the engine will achieve its full operating temperature soonerand the system will be fully operational sooner as well. By using thecool compressed air created by the system the temperatures in thecombustion chambers of the ICE can be kept at normal temperatures andthus will minimize pollution.

Multiple radiant coolers can also be used to have the first radiantcooler 254 enhance the cooling of the fluid 20 by blowing the cool airof radiant cooler 254 over the second radiant cooler 258.

Another Embodiment of the Energy Extraction Subsystem—Battery Charger:

In another embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4, the energyextraction subsystem can be used to recharge one or more batteries 220of a gasoline or electric hybrid car or operate any number of devices orequipment in that car.

This type of embodiment is helpful in providing the benefit of beingable to use the energy generated from the energy retriever system at atime when the heat source is not actively producing sufficient heat.This situation exists in an automobile when the engine is not runningwhere the charged batteries may power an electric motor to propel thevehicle. This type of embodiment is particularly helpful when integratedinto a vehicle that is able to be propelled by an electric motor and theICE can be turned off when not needed. The electricity that the thermalcycle generated runs the vehicle. In an implementation with arefrigeration truck, the energy retriever system can be used to chargebatteries that can be used to continue to run compressors or heatersthat will continue the thermodynamic cycle so that a refrigerationcompartment can be kept cold even when the truck engine is turned off.The same benefits are gained from a fishing vessel that needs torefrigerate a compartment when the ship engine is not operating. Similarbenefits are gained from implementations that use solar energy wherebatteries can be charged while the sun is out and battery power can beused when solar heat is not available.

Other Embodiments of Energy Extraction Subsystem—Electrical Motor:

FIG. 4 also shows another embodiment of the energy retriever systemwhere the work generated by the energy retriever system 1000 can includepower generators 216 and alternators 218 which can be used to powerelectrical motors 270. These electrical motors 270 can be used to powerother systems or to act as auxiliary propulsion for the ICE. Forexample, placing electrical motors 270 on the front axle of a rear wheeldriven vehicle, and using them to turn the wheels, reduces some of thework needed to propel the vehicle. Power for these electrical motors 270will come from the generators 216 and alternators 218 run by the turbosin the expansion cycle subsystem. This reduces the demands on the ICEand drops the amount of fuel needed to operate the engine. Wherenecessary, clutch and other drive components may need to be used toconnect the electrical motors 270 to the vehicle drive mechanisms.

Another embodiment uses two separate turbos and generators each drivenindependently and mounted in the wheel wells for maximum effect. Thesewould supply their maximum power to the wheels before the standard ICEwould begin to propel the car. The system could also use a single turbo(214 in FIG. 8) and generator to power a single auxiliary electricalmotor routed through a power splitting gear. FIG. 8 is a simplifieddiagram of such a system using an electrical motor 400 mounted on avehicle (illustrated in simplified fashion as 420 in FIG. 8), thevehicle having front and rear axles (front axle 414 shown in FIG. 8) andwheels 416. The power splitting gear 402 acts through the electricgenerator 404 with its associated inverter 408 and battery 406 to supplypower to the electric motor 400. The power splitter is also connectedmechanically to the output of the vehicle internal combustion engine418, whereby the output shaft of the vehicle engine and output shaft ofthe electric motor act through the reduction gears 410 of a conventionaltransmission 412 to propel the vehicle. The turbo 214 providessupplemental power to the electric generator 404 In this manner both theICE and the electrical motor are driving the vehicle at the same time.With the additional power from the electrical motor, the load on the ICEwill be lessened and the fuel consumption reduced. As the engine bumsless fuel the cooling system will reduce its function as well tomaintain the exhaust temperature and thus continue the thermal process.

Another Embodiment of the Energy Extraction Subsystem—Heat Fuel:

As shown in FIG. 5, in another embodiment of the invention, the heatfrom the ICE's operation can be used to pre-heat the fuel before it isinjected in to the combustion chamber.

Another Embodiment of the Energy Extraction Subsystem—Electrical HeatingElements

FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the invention where power from thebattery 220 or the generator 216 can be used to power an electric heater226. The electric heater 226 can be used to provide heat to a space suchas an automobile's passenger compartment when the heat source 102, suchas an ICE, is not operating or it can be used to take the demand off ofthe heat source 102 and other heaters while the ICE is running.

Another Embodiment of the Energy Capture Subsystem—Solar Panels:

FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the invention where solar panels 227can be used to enhance the energy capture subsystem 210. These solarpanels 227 can be used to independently power devices or they can beused to charge the batteries 220. Power from the solar panels 227 wouldbe supplied through a transformer and then into the batteries 220. Thesolar panels 227 in this embodiment would be in operation whenever thevehicle is exposed to sunlight or bright lights.

Other Embodiments of the Energy Retriever System:

Another embodiment of the energy retriever system 1000 comprisesutilizing various combinations of the above elements. One example ofthis embodiment is shown in FIG. 5 where the energy retriever system1000 is used in an automobile with multiple methods used to extractenergy and work from the system. In this embodiment, the energyretriever system 1000 uses heat from the automobile's engine as the heatsource 102 The energy extraction subsystems can be used to cool elementsof the car as shown with the radiant cooler 254, to power generators 216and electric motors 270 to help propel the car and to turn an alternator218 that charges one or more batteries 220. The energy retriever systemcan also be used to power hydraulic pumps that can either be used tohelp propel a vehicle or power other devices.

With an embodiment of the energy retriever system incorporated into anautomotive vehicle, as is shown in FIG. 5, a dynamic system can becreated between this embodiment of the invention and the normalautomobile's ICE. For example, on longer drives in an automobile, theICE would be used initially to provide most of the propulsion duties ofthe car while the energy retriever system 1000 takes the heat resultingfrom the internal combustion and recharges the batteries 220 andprovides some propulsion of the vehicle as well. Since the electricalpower provided by the energy retriever system 1000 is more than theelectrical system will be using, the batteries 220 will be charged tofull capacity at a certain point in the drive. When this happens the ICEcan automatically shut down and the electrical system takes over thepropulsion duties of the vehicle until they again drop below a thresholdcapacity. At this threshold, the ICE restarts and the cycle startsagain.

As shown in FIG. 5, another embodiment of the energy retriever systemincludes a power cord 228 that can be used to plug into a normalelectrical outlet and charge the batteries 220.

As shown in FIG. 5, another embodiment of the energy retriever systemincludes a computer system with logic stored and exercised by aprocessor 222 and memory 224 interconnected with system components andsensors to help control and adjust components such as valve thresholds,fan speed, temperatures and other system variables.

The system can be applied and used in any system that generates heat orcan create energy to be turned into heat. Boats, trains, trucks, buses,streetcars and other engine driven systems are examples of, but not theonly examples of good applications.

As shown in FIG. 3, another embodiment of the energy retriever systemcomprises using the system in buildings or other habitable structures byutilizing solar panels 104 as the heat source in the energy capturesubsystem 100. For example, a building uses energy and is exposed tothermal energy coming from exposure to the sun. Usually, this heat is anuisance that actually creates a need for more air conditioning when thetemperatures are high. By absorbing some of this thermal energy, theexternal thermal heat on the building can be used to cool the interiorof the building through the use of the condenser cycle subsystem. Thethermal energy can also be used to power electrical generators and otheruseful devices within the building.

Operation of One Embodiment of the Energy Retriever System:

Another example of an embodiment of this system comprising installingthis system in a mid-sized economy car. This embodiment comprises anenergy retriever system with a heat source that includes solar panels aswell as the car's engine. This embodiment also includes batteries andelectric motors to help propel the car even when the ICE is not running.

Operationally, with this embodiment, the car could be plugged into atypical power outlet when parked overnight at the owner's home to ensurethe batteries are charged. The first thing in the morning the ownercomes into the garage and unplugs the car. The charge of the batteriescould give the car a 60-minute (city) or 60 mile (highway) range whichwill cover most common commutes. When the owner gets into the car andpresses the “on” button and the electric motor propels the car. At thispoint, the gas powered I.C.E. has not yet started. Using only theelectrical system the cars pulls away and travels the distance to work.The owner parks the car in the lot at work. Assuming this is a sunny daythe car will sit exposed to the sun all day while the owner is insideworking. During this time the solar cells on the car are helping torecharge the batteries. By lunch the batteries are completely rechargedand the owner takes the car for a 5 to 10 miles drive for lunch andreturns to the parking lot at work around. The car again sits exposed tothe sun's rays and recharges the batteries. At the end of the normalday, the owner gets back in the car and drives it home again silently.During the entire day's drive the ICE has not been used and the owner ofthe car has not burned any fossil fuel.

On longer drives the ICE would start itself when the battery power isnot sufficient. At this point, the ICE would take over most of thepropulsion duties of the car while the heat resulting from the internalcombustion recharges the batteries and provides some propulsion of thevehicle. Since the electrical power provided by the thermal generator ismore than the electrical system will be using, the batteries will reachfull capacity. When this happens the ICE automatically shut down and theelectrical system takes over the propulsion duties of the vehicle untilthey again drop below a threshold capacity. At this point the ICErestarts itself and the cycle starts again.

ICE's designed to operate with this system could be designed to operateat considerably higher temperatures than today's normal ICE's. This waythe engine will achieve its full operating temperature quicker and theenergy retriever system will be fully operational quicker as well. Byusing the cold compressed air created by the system the temperatures inthe combustion chambers of the ICE can be kept at normal temperaturesand thus will reduce pollution from the ICE.

While these are some of the applications of this system, they are in noway intended to be taken as all inclusive and it is understood thatthere are many other applications not mentioned and as well as those yetto be determined. Where there is enough heat to require that a coolingsystem be installed, there usually be enough heat to operate thiscooling system at a considerable less cost than a conventional system.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, toinclude variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and mannerof operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obviousto one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to thoseillustrated in the drawings and described in the specification areintended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of theprinciples of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications andchanges will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is notdesired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operationshown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications andequivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of theinvention. Although this invention has been described in the above formswith a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that thepresent disclosure has been made only by way of example and numerouschanges in the details of construction and combination and arrangementof parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A self-contained thermodynamic energy retrievalsystem, the energy retrieval system comprising: a conduit in proximityto a heat source of the internal combustion engine such that heat fromthe heat source is transferrable to the conduit; a turbo fluidly coupledto the conduit; a condenser cycle subsystem fluidly coupled to theconduit; wherein the turbo is adapted to turn in response to a flowingfluid heated by the transferred heat, thereby converting kinetic energyof the heated flowing fluid to mechanical energy; wherein the condensercycle subsystem is adapted to cool the flowing fluid for recycling backto the heat source; and wherein the heat sources comprises an exhaustmanifold, and the conduit is in proximity to the exhaust manifold,whereby, when the engine is running, hot exhaust gases pass through theexhaust manifold, creating exhaust heat, such that exhaust heat from theexhaust manifold is transferrable to the conduit.
 2. The system of claim1 further comprising an electric generator coupled to the turbo, anelectric motor coupled to the electric generator, and an output shaftcoupled to the electric motor to transfer the mechanical energy to theoutput shaft.
 3. The system of claim 2 wherein the output shaft iscoupled to the output shaft of the internal combustion engine such thatthe mechanical energy is transferred to the internal combustion engineoutput shaft.
 4. An energy retrieval system for an internal combustionengine of a vehicle, the vehicle having an exhaust manifold whichreleases a source of waste heat, the energy retrieval system comprising:an energy capture subsystem located in proximity to the source of wasteheat at an operation temperature, the energy capture subsystem having atleast one conduit containing a fluid at a pressure; said fluid having ahigh expansion factor, high thermal conductivity and a boiling pointlower than said operational temperature of said heat source and lowerthan said fluid at said heat source; an expansion cycle subsystem; acondenser cycle subsystem; a reservoir subsystem; a plurality ofconduits connecting said energy capture subsystem, said expansion cyclesubsystem, said condenser cycle subsystem and said reservoir subsystem;said plurality of conduits containing said fluid; said expansion cyclesubsystem comprises at least one conduit and a valve and at least oneturbo; said condenser cycle subsystem comprises at least one conduit andat least one radiant cooler; said reservoir subsystem comprises at leastone conduit, at least one valve, a reservoir and at least a selected oneof a compressor and a pump; an electric generator interoperablyconnected to the turbo, the generator, in turn, being interoperablyconnected to an electric motor, the electric motor having an outputshaft connected to a power splitting gear, the power splitting gear alsobeing connected to an output shaft of the internal combustion engine ofthe vehicle, the power splitting gear acting through a conventional gearand transmission system to turn an axle of the vehicle, whereby when theinternal combustion engine and the electrical motor are both running,they act through the power splitting gear to simultaneously turn thegear and thereby simultaneously propel the vehicle.